In a sudden change of events on the latest episode of AEW Dynamite, the wrestling world was shocked when the floodgates reopened, ushering in a Clash of the Titans that promises to reignite one of NJPW’s most popular rivalries.
Gauntlet Release: AEW Champion vs. Most Famous Team
On a fateful night at Forbidden Door, AEW World Tag Team Champions The Young Bucks, along with AEW Continental Champion Kazuchika Okada, laid down a bold challenge to The Acclaimed in a six-man tag team match. Max Caster and Anthony Bowens of The Acclaimed first agreed, setting the scene for what would be an all-time battle of athletic prowess and tactical skill.
The Revolution of the President: Hiroshi Tanahashi’s Debut
However, things changed dramatically when WWE Hall of Famer Billy Gunn made a surprising announcement. Gunn chose not to join The Acclaimed, but he revealed a surprising new addition – NJPW president Hiroshi Tanahashi. The arena erupted as Tanahashi’s form filled the screen, showing off his signature high-flying streak and showing that he was ready to step back into the ring.
View this post on Instagram
The rivalry will rise again: Tanahashi and Okada
The addition of Hiroshi Tanahashi adds history and strong competition to the upcoming tournament. Tanahashi and Okada’s history is etched in the annals of NJPW history, involving an epic event that defined an era. From Okada defeating Tanahashi for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship to a memorable match at Wrestle Kingdom, their matches have been cornerstones of NJPW’s legacy throughout the 2010s.
Letting Go and Saying Goodbye: Okada’s AEW Journey
Kazuchika Okada bid farewell to NJPW earlier this year, ending his singles match against Tanabashi on February 11th. The start of a new chapter for AEW. His presence in this upcoming match not only represents his transformation but also serves as a symbolic bridge between the two wrestling houses.
Reserved Door: The Doorway to Wrestling Excellence
The “Gateway” concept by AEW began to redefine the boundaries of professional wrestling. Conducting cross-promotion contests and unexpected partnerships paves the way for dream and past contests to flourish again. The inclusion of NJPW President Tanahashi in this match not only enhanced the ongoing partnership but also added a layer of intrigue and unpredictability to the match.